Bikepacking gear to get started in 2025

Bikepacking melds bicycling with camping, offering an easy and sustainable way to explore the outdoors. If you’re just getting started, it helps to be well prepared.  

“Gearing up for bikepacking is about problem-solving for three key things: hydration, nutrition, and sleep,” says Fayetteville, Arkansas-based Brannon Pack, the senior operations director for the Ozark Foundation, a nonprofit focused on removing barriers to outdoor access, who also teaches an introductory course on bikepacking at the University of Arkansas.  

To address those basic needs and offer tips, we consulted with Pack and other experts, researched product reviews, and leaned on our own experience to round up some of the best bikepacking gear. Our list includes products in a range of price points that are highly rated for quality, durability, comfort, and convenience. Here’s everything you need to roll out on the trails. 

Bike camping gear for beginners 

Cricket Butler, the Kalispell, Montana-based founder of Whitefish Bike Retreat and board member of Bikepacking Roots, advises first-time bikepackers to take a minimalist approach to gear. “It’s all got to fit in those bags on the bike, so don’t burden yourself with a 10-pound tent if you can get a lighter one,” she says. 

Butler acknowledges that ultralight gear comes at a cost but urges beginners not to let expensive, cutting-edge products be an impediment to bikepacking. “I have seen people with Walmart sleeping bags and tents—anything that can get you outdoors, if that’s what you have, just do it.” 

“I always tell people to first select a route, know what time of year you’re traveling in, and know your comfort level,” says Erick Cedeño, an adventure cyclist and historian based in Santa Monica, California. “Meaning, how comfortable you want to be out there, and how much can you carry.” 

He suggests trying out the gear before hitting the trail. Set up your tent in your living room or try a new water filter at your kitchen sink. You can even test your bikepacking setup by going on a short overnight trip somewhere nearby. “You can learn a lot about yourself, how you carry things, and what you should or shouldn’t bring,” he says.   

Best bikepacking bike: Trek X-Caliber 8 

Why we like it: The best bikepacking bike for you depends on where you’ll be riding and how comfortable you are on the bike. In general, however, a good bike for bikepacking should balance cost with high-quality manufacturing, sturdy tires, and suspension designed to handle a variety of trails.  

This Trek model is a great starting point for new bikepackers who need a confidence boost. Equipped with parts made by Shimano—known for producing reliable, well-performing components—a springy “RockShox” fork over the front wheel that absorbs bumps, and a lightweight frame, the X-Caliber 8 is a dependable entry-level bike. Additionally, Cedeño says Trek has excellent customer service.  

Keep in mind: While a hardtail’s lack of rear suspension makes the bike more efficient on smooth trails, it also means less shock absorption, and often, more soreness at the end of the day. Riders can mitigate this by lifting off the saddle when rolling over bumps. 

Additionally, a cross-country bike will do fine on moderately rough trails but because of the lighter frame and shorter travel (level of suspension compression), it isn’t recommended for highly technical, rocky terrain.  

Product details: Type: XC (cross country) hardtail mountain bike | Frame: Aluminum | Suspension: RockShox Judy SL fork, 100mm travel | Seatpost: Bontrager alloy (fixed), internal dropper compatible | Tires: Maxxis Ardent Race, tubeless ready, 27.5 x 2.3 in. | Groupset: Shimano XT | Weight: 28.8 lbs.  

(Here’s the road cycling gear you need for your next two-wheel adventure)

Best pack bags: Revelate Designs Terrapin System 14L System Seat Pack

Why we like it: A cycling favorite, Revelate Designs makes some of the best bikepacking bags. “They’re readily available and really a great way to set up your bike to go bikepacking,” says Pack. “Revelate was on the forefront and helped define the bikepacking bag industry, and they were one of the first to go mass production.” 

Valued for its tough construction and waterproof material, the Terrapin drybag is spacious and has an intuitive design. A rear strap attaches to the seatpost, while the side straps loop through the saddle rails and cinch, eliminating sagging or swaying while pedaling. 

This bag is typically used for holding soft items, such as a sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and pillow. Other popular bags from Revelate Designs include the Saltyroll handlebar bag—which bikepackers applaud for its capacity to hold their shelter and tent poles—and the Ranger Frame Bag, which straps into the bike’s triangle to hold key items, such as hydration bladders, snacks, tools, and a first aid kit. 

Keep in mind: Because these are mass-produced bags, there’s no guarantee that they’ll be a dialed-in fit for your specific bike. To get a customized fit, you can work with a small-scale cottage company that will design a bag made to attach snugly to your frame (this is often costly). As a first step, beginners should consult their local bike shop to determine which bags are the best fit for their bicycle.  

Product details: Weight: 1 lb. 2 oz. | Gear capacity: 14L | Material: Waterproof ripstop nylon    

Best bikepacking tent: Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL1 Bikepack Tent 

Why we like it: Your shelter will likely be the heaviest (and potentially the most cumbersome) item, so the best bikepacking tent should pack down small. It should also be reasonably lightweight and weatherproof. 

Cedeño praises the Big Agnes Copper Spur for all the above, calling it his go-to choice for bikepacking. “I like how light it is and how the poles fit well in your bags,” he says. “I have been in several bad weather situations, like rain and wind, and it holds up very well.” 

Along with its tough nylon material and relatively spacious interior, the Copper Spur is easy to set up. Cedeño says he can have this freestanding tent up in just five minutes—speed is key when dusk or wet weather is fast approaching.  

Keep in mind: This is a great entry-level bikepacking tent, but it’s expensive. Some travelers say the provided stakes are weak and advise purchasing heftier ones for a more secure anchor. 

Product details: Weight: 2.8 lbs. | Packed size: 6 x 13 in. | Floor area: 20 sq. ft. | Tent material: Nylon | Pole material: Aluminum | Sleeping capacity: 1-person   

Best sleeping bag: Katabatic Flex 15°F Quilt  

Why we like it: While a traditional sleeping bag works fine, Butler finds a blanket-style quilt makes the best bikepacking sleeping bag due to its lighter weight and easy-to-fold structure.  

The down-filled Katabatic Flex offers ample warmth and rolls up into a roughly seven-by-13-inch bundle, weighing just under two pounds. 

“This quilt saves a lot of weight,” says Butler. “It’s also warmer and roomier for me to move around in than being constricted in a sleeping bag.” 

Keep in mind: Some reviewers mention that the Flex Quilt’s attachment system of straps and plastic clips, meant for securing to the sleeping pad, is a bit tricky to navigate. It may take some practice beforehand.  

Product details (size regular): Weight: 25.5 oz. | Packed size: 7.5 x 13 in. | Material: Nylon | Fill: Duck down or goose down 

Best sleeping pad: Klymit Static V2 Inflatable Sleeping Pad 

Why we like it: At just a pound, this sleeping pad folds down small and is built to last for many trips, according to Pack. “It is quality construction, it’s economical, and it has never failed me—and it’s crazy how fast you can blow it up,” he says, adding that it takes about 10 breaths to inflate.  

Keep in mind: The Static V2 is not the best choice for cold nights (below 40ºF) and won’t keep you warm on chilly ground surfaces. A sleeping pad’s R-value—its level of insulation—typically ranges from one to seven; this one comes in at 1.3, making it inadequate for cold-weather camping. 

Product details: Weight: 1 lb. | Inflated dimensions: 72 x 23 x 2.5 in. | Packed size: 8 x 3 in. | Material: Polyester | R-value: 1.3   

(These tested e-bikes make cycling trips a breeze)

Best emergency poncho: Everlit Survival Rain Poncho 

Why we like it: Butler urges riders to bring an emergency poncho along on rides, especially if there’s rain in the forecast. “Any rain jacket is going to get wet out at some point,” she says. “I always keep a poncho on my bike, and in heavy downpours where I still have to ride, I put it over my jacket and it keeps me dry.” 

This inexpensive, reusable poncho—which comes in a pack of four—is designed to be water- and windproof. Reviewers appreciate that the mylar material retains and reflects 90 percent of body heat (similar to an emergency blanket), according to the brand. 

Weighing three ounces and folding down to roughly the size of an index card, it can be packed away almost anywhere on the bike or in a pocket.  

Keep in mind: The poncho’s sleeves come down only to the elbow, so your arms will still get wet while riding. 

Product details: Quantity: 4-pack | Material: Mylar | Dimensions (folded): 5 x 3 in. | Weight: 3 oz. | Size: One size 

Best water filter: Platypus QuickDraw Filter  

Why we like it: With a flow rate of three liters per minute when squeeze-filtering, the Platypus QuickDraw excels at speedy filtration while claiming to remove 99.9 percent of bacteria and protozoa. Reviewers appreciate the filter’s compact, travel-sized dimensions and light weight. 

Butler praises the QuickDraw for being easy to clean on the go by shaking or back flushing. “There’s no extra syringes to take or anything,” she says. “You can use clean water out in the field to clear the filter of debris.”   

Keep in mind: When riding or camping in frigid temperatures, you’ll need to prevent the QuickDraw from freezing so the filtration membrane isn’t damaged. “If it’s super cold, you can throw it in your sleeping bag,” says Butler.  

Product details: Dimensions: 5 x 1.8 in. | Weight: 2.4 oz. | Filtration speed: 3L per minute | Filter: Hollow fiber 

(These genius collapsible water bottles go everywhere)

Best water bottle: Bivo Trio 

Why we like it: The Bivo Trio is a lightweight 21-ounce bottle designed to fit securely in most bottle cages on bikes. A reliable hydration system is crucial on multiday excursions, and the Trio is made of sturdy, puncture-resistant stainless steel that doesn’t alter the taste of water. Reviewers say the double-wall vacuum insulation is excellent at keeping water cool and preserving ice cubes through long, hot rides. Thirsty cyclists appreciate the high flow rate that allows for quick, full drinks with little effort.  

Keep in mind: While the Bivo Trio is a highly rated product, it is expensive for a water bottle. Costly gear should not be a barrier to entry—if necessary, just use whatever durable bottle you have. 

Product details: Capacity: 21 fl. oz. | Dimensions: 10.2 x 3 in. | Weight: 9.7 oz. | Material: Stainless steel 

Best multi-tool: Lezyne Super V22  

Why we like it: Many cyclists trust Lezyne for its superb, long-lasting bike gear and tools. Butler has used the company’s products for decades and applauds the variety of options.  

Riders speak highly of the Super V22 multi-tool for its extensive number of well-made tools and its slim, low-profile design that slides easily into a frame bag. The aluminum side plates provide good grip and extra leverage when performing repairs.  

With 22 essential features, including a sturdy screwdriver, a chain breaker, and a wide variety of wrenches, this multi-tool is a highly functional piece of gear that’s handy for the road.  

Keep in mind: Some riders report that the anticorrosion coating on a few of the tools begins to wear down after repeated use.  

Product details: Weight: 1.6 oz. | Dimensions: 2 x 4 x 1 in. | Material: Stainless Steel, aluminum | Hex wrenches: 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8 | Torx wrenches: T10, T25, and T30 | Other tools: Phillips head screwdriver, chain breaker, 8/10mm wrench, 4 spoke wrenches 

(Everyone needs a multi-tool. Here are the best.)

Best bike pump: Silca Tattico Mini Pump 

Why we like it: Even without punctures, bike tires can lose air on long rides. A dependable air pump is vital for restoring tire pressure in a pinch. Silca’s Tattico Mini Pump is a favorite among cyclists for its small, lightweight size and high-quality construction.  

The Tattico is made with a greater-than-average air volume that inflates tires faster than other pumps. Compatible with both Presta and Schrader valves, this pump locks on via a long, flexible (and retractable) hose. Reviewers say it prevents strain and damage to the valve stem or disconnection. 

With the included bracket and bolts, the Tattico attaches right alongside the bottle cage for a sleek and unobtrusive addition to the frame. It’s small enough to fit snugly into a handlebar bag too. 

Keep in mind: While there are very few complaints about the Tattico’s performance, the price is rather steep for some. Riders who prefer an ultralight bikepacking setup say they wish the pump was more lightweight.  

Product details: Weight: 5.8 oz. | Length: 9.5 in. | Material: Aluminum | Maximum pressure: 100 psi | Power source: Hand pump | Valve compatibility: Presta and Schrader    

Navigation device: Wahoo Elemnt Roam V2  

Why we like it: A navigation device helps cyclists stay on the right track—especially when a route is not well marked. Butler vouches for the Wahoo Elemnt Roam V2. “The best function on this device is the simplicity of downloading routes,” she says. “Hands down—the easiest.” 

Others commend this model’s long battery life of 17 hours, its ability to quickly connect and sync with a phone, and its turn-by-turn directions and color maps. Wahoo’s customer service is known for being helpful and responsive. 

Keep in mind: Some reviews mention the small screen and low contrast make the display difficult to see in low-light conditions.  

Product details: Battery: USB rechargeable | Dimensions: 3.5 x 2.3 x 0.8 in. | Weight: 3.3 oz. | Display size: 2.7 in. | Memory: 32 GB | Battery life: 17 hours 

Best action camera: GoPro Hero13 Black  

Why we like it: Bikepackers may be tempted to use their cellphone to capture photos and videos of their trips. But Cedeño advises against that. “You have to think about your phone’s battery, especially if you’re recording video with your phone, using the GPS on your phone, and generally using it for other things,” he says. 

Cedeño enjoys using the easy-to-mount GoPro for capturing memories and making films of his bikepacking adventures.  

The GoPro Hero13 Black is made with water-repellent lenses and is waterproof up to 33 feet, according to the brand. Along with award-winning video stabilization technology, the camera allows you to shoot in wide, vertical, or full-frame. 

Reviewers love the crystal-clear picture quality, intuitive mounting hardware for helmets or handlebars, and secure attachment that holds fast on bumpy rides.   

Keep in mind: The battery life of the GoPro Hero 13 Black runs about two and half hours, so bring extras or a power bank. (The power bank may come in handy for charging other electronics as well.) 

Product details: Battery: Removable 1900mAh Enduro | Dimensions: 2.8 x 2 x 1.3 in. | Weight: 5.6 oz. | Rear display: 2.2 in. (touch) | Front display: 1.4 in. (color) | Battery life: 2.5 hours | Memory storage: 1 microSD (not included) | Operating temperature: 14º F-95º F 

What is bikepacking? 

Put simply, bikepacking is a minimalist way of taking a multi-day trip on your bicycle along mainly unpaved paths. This type of adventure often goes into backcountry or backwoods settings using soft bags (that attach to the bike’s seat, handlebars, and frame) to carry essential gear for overnights. It can be a sustainable way to explore corners you may not be able to reach by car.  

Frequently asked questions 

How many miles a day is bikepacking? 

The mileage of a bikepacking trip is largely dependent on route, terrain, and your physical ability. There is no set number of miles that qualifies for bikepacking. “One reason I fell in love with bikepacking was because of the freedom of it—it shouldn’t be labeled by the miles covered,” says Cedeño, who typically rides 50 to 60 miles per day. Beginners are encouraged to start small with their first excursion, around 25 to 30 miles, to get a feel without the stakes being high. 

Do I need a special bike for bikepacking? 

The type of bike you choose for bikepacking depends on what kind of journey you’re taking. Terrain is a big consideration. However, a hardtail mountain bike (front suspension only) with 29-inch wheels for good rollover and wider, bump-absorbing 2.25-inch tires is generally a good fit for a variety of bikepacking trips. 

If you’ve chosen a route with mostly smooth surfaces, you can choose a “rigid” bike with no suspension at all for a simpler setup. “I ride a rigid for several reasons, one being that there’s no suspension I have to worry about breaking,” says Butler.  

What’s the difference between bike touring and bikepacking? 

“Bikepacking differs from classic bicycle touring by three things: The type of bicycle you use, the style of bicycle bags, and the types of surfaces ridden,” explains Pack. 

While touring tends to look like pannier-laden road bikes on mostly paved roads and paths, bikepacking takes a more minimalist “bike camping” approach, utilizing mountain or gravel bikes with streamlined frame bags on adventures that mainly follow gravel and dirt trails.